Intertextuality is a complex and sometimes controversial art; a writer may attempt to
preserve or change an original works theme, comment ironically upon it, or update it to
accommodate changes in a society. When the adaptation or appropriation is in a different
medium from the original, the artist has a whole new set of issues to consider. Compare
Puccinis opera Madame Butterfly (as referenced in the play) and Hwangs M. Butterfly.
How does Hwangs intertext refashion its source text to create new meaning?
